By Jamie Martin
Summer 2025 is turning out to be a big win for the ethanol industry and corn farmers alike. As record-breaking numbers of Americans hit the road, demand for gasoline—and ethanol—is surging.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) allowed E15, a gasoline blend with 15% ethanol, to be sold nationwide during summer. This move, meant to support renewable energy and lower emissions, is helping gas stations offer a cheaper fuel option. AAA noted E15 could cost up to 39 cents less per gallon than E10, the more common blend.
Geoff Cooper of the Renewable Fuels Association reports E15 is now sold at about 4,300 gas stations. Though that’s a small share of the national total, the impact is significant. “We haven’t seen this sort of acceleration in demand for a number of years,” he said.
Fuel prices are the lowest since 2021, encouraging more people to travel. AAA predicted 61.6 million drivers over the Fourth of July period—a 2.2% increase from 2024.
With corn prices at just $4.06 a bushel and planting at 95.2 million acres—the highest since 2013—farmers are optimistic. Ethanol demand may help use up much of the expected harvest.
Ben Brown of the University of Missouri believes ethanol usage could surpass the EPA’s target of 15 billion gallons this year due to high fuel consumption.
Ilshat Haris from Boston Consulting Group added, “Given the significant demand and the economics of producing ethanol are advantageous, we’re seeing a record level being blended into the pool.”
Farmers, especially in Iowa, are hopeful this trend continues. Chris Boshart of Gold-Eagle Cooperative stressed the importance - “From a corn standpoint, we need these plants up and running at full.”
As summer travel continues, ethanol remains a key player in fuel markets and corn-based sustainability.
Photo Credit: shutterstock-dickgage
Categories: National